I tried using different types of fabrics and more embellishments for these. They are both around 9"x6".
The background is linen/cotton mix, and the appliqué and binding are raw silk.
I stamped the leaves using So-Soft fabric paint.
I did some free motion machine embroidery on the leaves before applying the appliqué, and added a couple more leaves with stitching.
I used fusible web to add the flower and then stitched all around close to the edge to secure it (free motion using Aurifil #50 thread),
I then added some more free form decorative stitching.
I added some accents with metallic thread (I had to switch to regular sewing because my machine doesn't like free motion sewing with metallic thread - I tried adjusting the tension and changing to different types of needles with no luck)
I added two circles of raw silk for the centre, with the grain of the fabric at 45 degrees to each other,
so that the fringe would be full when I removed the outer fabric threads. I also added a few beads and a button (stitched on by hand).
I quilted around the design and added some leaves using Aurifil #50 thread to match the background.
This one is made with the same background fabric, and similar stamped and machine embroidered leaves.
I also added a picture made from a scan of an old book (Flower Fairies of the Autumn) that I printed directly onto a piece of fabric (using a piece of muslin ironed onto a piece of freezer paper and a regular inkjet printer - photo quality setting).
I added a piece of wool crepe and some decorative stitching with metallic thread,
plus a piece of lace, mother-of-pearl buttons, and some beads.
I always use a stabilizer on the back when I am doing decorative stitching and I tried some "Burn Away" stabilizer for this one. I cut away the excess and then ironed the back until the stabilizer turned brown. It then just brushed off.
I used a thin piece of batting as a stabilizer for the quilt with the yellow flower.
I always start projects like this thinking that they will end up more free-form, organic and "messy", but all my work seems to end up neat and organized! I guess I just have to resign myself to that.
Have a great day and thanks for stopping by!♥